School’s out and the relaxing, sunny days of summer are here. But hunger doesn’t end when vacation begins. In fact, the summer months are typically a time of increased need for families with kids, as the breakfast and lunch many children rely on at school are no longer readily available, and family grocery lists get longer now that kids are home.
Wondering how you can help? Here are a few ways you can spread summer sunshine to the 1 in 5 of your neighbors who are struggling to put food on their tables right now.
1. Spend Time with Us
As summer break brings changes in daily routines and ongoing commitments, keeping all our volunteer slots filled can be a challenge! Add us to your summer bucket list and join us for a shift sorting, boxing and bagging food at our warehouses or passing out food at distribution sites. There are plenty of opportunities to help throughout the week, and an even bigger chance to warm your heart by working toward a common goal with others and making a difference in the lives of our neighbors. (Psst! We especially need volunteers in our Fairfield warehouse!)
2. Get Older Kids Involved
Organizations like Scouts, church groups, sports teams and school-related clubs often reward community service and the Food Bank is a great place to start. Keep in mind kids 16 years-old and above can volunteer solo, while children ages 11 to 15 need adult accompaniment. Volunteering is a fun activity, a great team-building experience and an awesome opportunity to establish a lifelong habit of giving back to the community.
3. Give a Repeat Gift
Your generous donations keep us going – even $1 provides two nutritious meals! And right now you can make an even bigger impact by joining our Nourish 365 monthly giving community. An automatic donation makes it easy to fight hunger every single month, plus lower administrative costs mean even more of your gift goes directly to supporting your neighbors. If your first donation is made by the end of June it will also be matched dollar for dollar in memory of longtime Food Bank supporter Jean – that’s DOUBLE the meals!
4. Organize a Virtual Food Drive
This may be the easiest fundraiser you’ve ever hosted! Our virtual food drives are popular for birthday parties, corporate events, holiday parties, grand openings of local businesses, even friendly competitions! In just a few clicks you can create a food drive, share it with family, friends and colleagues and in no time at all you’ll be providing nutritious meals to the community.
5. Keep in Touch
Sign up to receive our newsletter where we’ll share stories about our partners, programs and the difference your support makes every day – as well as new, fresh ways you can get involved in the fight against hunger! Ready for more? Check out our social media @FoodBankCCS.
